TRAC Outdoors Deckboat-G3 AutoDeploy Anchor Winch Review

Let’s Talk About TRAC Outdoors Deckboat-G3 AutoDeploy Anchor Winch

The TRAC Outdoors Deckboat-G3 AutoDeploy Anchor Winch promises to be a game-changer for any boater tired of the back-breaking work of manually dropping and retrieving their anchor. TRAC Outdoors aims to simplify anchoring with its AutoDeploy feature and integrated anchor roller, designed for effortless and precise anchor placement. Does it live up to the hype?

For years, I’ve struggled with a balky manual winch on my pontoon boat; the rope always seemed to tangle, and wrestling a heavy anchor in choppy water was less than ideal, to say the least. I was on the hunt for an affordable, reliable electric anchor winch that wouldn’t take up too much deck space and the TRAC Outdoors Deckboat-G3 AutoDeploy Anchor Winch seemed to fit the bill perfectly. I’d considered similar winches from Minn Kota and Lewmar, but the TRAC Outdoors unit boasted a more compact design and a price point that was hard to ignore.

The winch arrived well-packaged. My initial impression was of a sturdy, well-constructed unit; the one-piece frame looked robust and the integrated anchor roller appeared well-engineered. The weight felt appropriate for a device designed to handle anchors up to 40 lbs. I was definitely excited to get this bad boy mounted on my deckboat and start putting it through its paces.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting TRAC Outdoors Deckboat-G3 AutoDeploy Anchor Winch to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the TRAC Outdoors Deckboat-G3 AutoDeploy Anchor Winch was on a local lake known for its variable currents and muddy bottom. Installation was straightforward, thanks to the included wiring and clear instructions; the wireless remote was immediately appreciated. The AutoDeploy function worked flawlessly on the first try, precisely placing my anchor where I intended, while gradually releasing the rope until the anchor held position.

The winch performed admirably even in a slight headwind and moderate chop. There was absolutely no need to fumble with the rope or worry about the anchor dragging, which made fishing significantly more enjoyable. I was also pleasantly surprised by how quiet the winch was during operation.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of frequent use, the TRAC Outdoors Deckboat-G3 AutoDeploy Anchor Winch has consistently performed reliably. I’ve used it in both fresh and saltwater conditions, and the components are showing no signs of corrosion or wear. Cleaning is simple; a quick rinse with fresh water after each use is all that’s needed.

Compared to my previous manual winch, this is night and day. The TRAC Outdoors unit has eliminated the physical strain and frustration associated with anchoring, allowing me to spend more time fishing and less time wrestling with equipment. It has become an indispensable tool on my boat.

Breaking Down the Features of TRAC Outdoors Deckboat-G3 AutoDeploy Anchor Winch

Specifications

• Manufacturer: TRAC Outdoors is a company known for providing affordable and reliable marine accessories. Their reputation is on the line.
• Max Weight Capacity: The winch is rated for anchors up to 40 lbs (18 kg). This should be sufficient for most deckboats and pontoon boats.
• Weight: At 13.55 lbs, the winch is relatively lightweight, minimizing its impact on the boat’s overall weight and stability. This ensures it won’t add significant bulk.
• AutoDeploy Feature: This allows hands-free anchor deployment, automatically stopping when the anchor touches bottom and gradually releasing rope for optimal holding. This is the main selling point.
• Wireless Remote Controller: Included with a mounting bracket for the helm, the wireless remote offers convenient control from anywhere on the boat. This adds a level of convenience.
• ONE-PIECE Frame: Measuring only 9 in. x 9 in. (23 cm x 23 cm), the compact one-piece frame saves valuable deck space. This ensures it doesn’t crowd your deck.
• Integrated Anchor Roller: Designed for anchors up to 40 lbs, the integrated anchor roller facilitates smooth and controlled anchor deployment and retrieval. This helps prevent damage to your boat.
• Sealed Marine-Grade 3-Button Switch: The switch on the winch itself provides a backup control option in case the remote is misplaced or malfunctions. This is an important failsafe.
• 100 ft. (30.5 m) x 5 mm (0.20) Double Braid Anchor Rope: The included rope is sufficient for most anchoring situations, though you may need to upgrade for deeper waters. This is usually enough rope.
• Marine-Grade Tinned 12-Gauge Battery Wire: The included 16ft (5M) of marine-grade wiring ensures a reliable and corrosion-resistant connection to the boat’s battery. This makes installation easier.
• Retrieve Speed: The winch can retrieve 100 ft. of rope in approximately 90 seconds, allowing for quick and efficient anchor retrieval. This is a really efficient retrieve time.
• 12v Electric Winch Auto-Resetting Circuit Breaker: The auto-resetting circuit breaker protects the winch from overload, preventing damage and ensuring safe operation. This adds to the safety of the product.
• Safety Cable: The included safety cable provides an extra layer of security, preventing the anchor from being accidentally lost. This is another great safety feature.
• Warranty: TRAC Outdoors offers a 2-year warranty, providing peace of mind and protection against defects. This demonstrates the confidence in the product.

Performance & Functionality

The TRAC Outdoors Deckboat-G3 AutoDeploy Anchor Winch performs its primary function exceptionally well. The AutoDeploy feature is the real standout, making anchoring effortless and precise. The winch is reliable and consistent, providing smooth and controlled anchor deployment and retrieval.

The one area for potential improvement is the noise level; while not excessively loud, the winch could be quieter. Overall, the TRAC Outdoors Deckboat-G3 AutoDeploy Anchor Winch meets and, in many ways, exceeds expectations for a product in this price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The TRAC Outdoors Deckboat-G3 AutoDeploy Anchor Winch features a compact and functional design. The one-piece frame is sturdy and space-saving, while the integrated anchor roller is well-designed and easy to use. The wireless remote is comfortable to hold and intuitive to operate.

There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the AutoDeploy function, but the included instructions are clear and concise. The overall design is user-friendly and well-suited for a variety of boating applications.

Durability & Maintenance

The TRAC Outdoors Deckboat-G3 AutoDeploy Anchor Winch appears to be built to last, thanks to its marine-grade materials and robust construction. Regular cleaning with fresh water after each use is essential to prevent corrosion, especially in saltwater environments. With proper care and maintenance, this winch should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The TRAC Outdoors Deckboat-G3 AutoDeploy Anchor Winch comes with everything needed for basic installation and operation, including the wireless remote, wiring, and anchor rope. While there aren’t many customization options available directly from TRAC Outdoors, the winch is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket anchors and anchor rollers. Upgrading the anchor rope to a higher-strength or longer length is a common modification.

Pros and Cons of TRAC Outdoors Deckboat-G3 AutoDeploy Anchor Winch

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy TRAC Outdoors Deckboat-G3 AutoDeploy Anchor Winch?

The TRAC Outdoors Deckboat-G3 AutoDeploy Anchor Winch is perfect for:

• Deckboat and pontoon boat owners who want to simplify the anchoring process.
• Anglers who need precise anchor placement for optimal fishing.
• Boaters with physical limitations who struggle with manual anchoring.
• Anyone looking for an affordable and reliable electric anchor winch.

This product may not be ideal for boaters who:

• Require a winch with a higher weight capacity for larger anchors.
• Anchor in extremely deep water requiring more than 100 feet of rope.
• Are extremely sensitive to noise and require the quietest possible operation.

A must-have accessory is a higher quality anchor rope to replace the stock option.

Conclusion on TRAC Outdoors Deckboat-G3 AutoDeploy Anchor Winch

The TRAC Outdoors Deckboat-G3 AutoDeploy Anchor Winch is a fantastic addition to any boat, especially pontoon and deck boats, offering a significant improvement over manual anchoring. The AutoDeploy feature alone makes it worth the investment, and the compact design and wireless remote add even more value. At a price of $299.49, the TRAC Outdoors Deckboat-G3 AutoDeploy Anchor Winch offers a compelling value proposition for boaters seeking convenience and reliability.

I wholeheartedly recommend the TRAC Outdoors Deckboat-G3 AutoDeploy Anchor Winch to anyone looking to simplify their anchoring experience. Say goodbye to back-breaking work and hello to effortless anchor deployment. Go ahead, enhance your boating experience today!